President John Mahama has charged Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, the newly appointed Government Statistician, to deliver accurate and unbiased data—even when the facts may challenge government comfort.

Speaking at his swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama stressed the need for credible, real-time statistics to guide national development and decision-making.

The President assured Dr. Iddrisu of full operational independence and pledged that political interference would not affect his work. Alongside the new Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Iddrisu was urged to serve as a pillar of national accountability and evidence-based governance.

“Our leadership change reflects our deep commitment to data-driven policies and institutional excellence,” Mahama noted. “Sound decisions come from sound data.

The Office of the Government Statistician is vital to this nation.”President Mahama described the Ghana Statistical Service as a key development partner.

He emphasized its role in economic management, planning, and democratic accountability.“Our policies on poverty, youth employment, and social protection depend on the quality of our data,” he said. “Appointing a new statistician is not a routine task.

It strengthens our commitment to transparency and credible governance.”He welcomed Dr. Iddrisu with confidence in his professionalism, integrity, and experience in statistical research and data analysis.

The President underscored the importance of keeping up with global data standards and technological advances.“Ghana must not fall behind in gathering, processing, and using reliable statistics,” he warned.

“Whether tracking inflation or preparing for a population census, the Statistical Service must lead with innovation and independence.”

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining the service’s professional independence, stating that statistical integrity is essential—not optional. According to him, citizens must trust the published figures, and investors should rely on Ghana’s macroeconomic data.

Dr. Iddrisu was encouraged to work with all stakeholders—ministries, academia, private sector, and civil society—to embed data culture in governance.

“We’re building a transparent government based on accountability and evidence,” Mahama added.

“Timely and detailed data is crucial in sectors like health, education, and urban development. That’s why we’re investing in data infrastructure and digital transformation.”

The President expressed excitement about the Ghana Statistical Service’s role in programs like the 24-hour economy policy, Ghana CARES, the apprenticeship scheme, and reforms in health and education.

These initiatives, he noted, require detailed real-time data to ensure inclusivity and reach vulnerable populations.

He ended with a strong message to Dr. Iddrisu: “Be bold, innovative, and professional. This role demands more than technical skill—it requires courage, vision, and commitment to public service.”

You have my full support and that of this administration. But we also expect you to hold us accountable and govern based on facts—not assumptions,” Mahama said.He concluded, “Our future must rest on facts, not fiction.

In a complex world, data must guide our way. The Ghana Statistical Service must help us navigate wisely.”Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, in his response, thanked President Mahama for the confidence placed in him.

He promised to lead a transformation in the Ghana Statistical Service through credible and timely data.He pledged regular updates on employment and unemployment figures, including data on jobs created by flagship government programs.

Dr. Iddrisu also committed to publishing GDP data disaggregated by region.“I accept this appointment as a national duty. Data and evidence must be the core of governance,” he said.

“Our service will anchor Ghana’s development efforts with reliable information.”He outlined a seven-point vision for transforming the Ghana Statistical Service into a modern, technology-driven institution.

His focus areas include improving data accuracy, engaging with users, and strengthening the institution’s capacity.He announced plans to rebase the Consumer Price Index (CPI) every three years—down from the current seven—to improve inflation reporting.

He also plans to collect inflation data at the district level and produce regional GDP figures for the first time.“One of our top priorities is producing quarterly employment data,” Dr. Iddrisu stated.

“We’ll track movements in and out of employment and monitor job creation under government initiatives.”He vowed to collaborate with key stakeholders—including the Bank of Ghana, Ministry of Finance, and development partners—to build a data-driven Ghana.

“This is the President’s charge to us. We’ll deliver. Long live Ghana,” he concluded.